Where things stand with the National Guard shooting in D.C.

Monday, December 1, 2025 -Two members of the West Virginia National Guard — Sarah Beckstrom (20) and Andrew Wolfe (24) — were ambushed near the White House on Nov. 26, 2025, while on patrol. 

The gunman opened fire suddenly, then attempted to seize one victim’s weapon and continue shooting before being subdued. Beckstrom later died from her injuries; Wolfe remains in critical condition. The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29‑year-old Afghan national who entered the U.S. under a resettlement program, was arrested at the scene.

Authorities have formally charged Lakanwal with first‑degree murder, and additional charges are expected as the investigation continues. Officials have emphasized that the attack appears to have been a “calculated ambush,” though the motive remains undetermined — investigators are reviewing the suspect’s history, communications and background for possible leads.

In response to the shooting, law enforcement in Washington — including the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and federal partners — have instituted more robust security protocols. Every patrol group involving Guard members will now be accompanied by a police officer. 

Meanwhile, immigration authorities have paused asylum decisions for nationals from Afghanistan and other designated countries, citing a broader review of vetting procedures. The political backlash has already started, and national‑security officials say they’re treating the case as not only a violent crime but a matter of heightened security concern.